Shubman Gill Century Lifts India to Commanding Position at Edgbaston After Stokes’ Bowl-First Call
England Opt to Bowl Again as Gill’s Century Fires India in Second Test
England’s Ben Stokes defied conventional wisdom for the second consecutive Test, choosing to bowl first at Edgbaston despite ideal batting conditions. India’s captain, Shubman Gill, responded with a gritty century (114) to anchor his team’s total of 310-5 on Day 1, forging a crucial 99-run partnership with Ravindra Jadeja (41). The clash between Stokes’ unorthodox tactics and Gill’s composed leadership is fast becoming the defining duel of this series.
Shubman Gill celebrates his century on Day 1 at Edgbaston.
Stokes, who famously led England to a record 371-run chase at Headingley, doubled down on his aggressive philosophy, signaling confidence in his team’s ability to overhaul any target. However, India’s strong start underscored the gamble. After losing KL Rahul early (2) to Chris Woakes, Gill steadied the innings alongside Yashasvi Jaiswal, who fell for 87 to a loose stroke off Stokes.
Umpiring Controversies and Missed Chances
Woakes starred in a fiery opening spell, troubling India’s top order with swing and seam. He dismissed Rahul and later Nitish Reddy (15), but three contentious umpiring decisions cost England potential breakthroughs. Umpire Sharfuddoula rejected close lbw shouts against Jaiswal and Karun Nair (31), both upheld as “umpire’s call” on review. A later appeal against Jadeja met the same fate, leaving England frustrated.
Chris Woakes claimed two wickets but had limited luck with reviews.
Gill’s Redemption
Under pressure after India’s collapse in Leeds, Gill showcased maturity, blending defense with elegant strokes. His seventh Test ton, and fourth against England, rescued India from 211-5, countering a middle-order slump that included Rishabh Pant’s dismissal (25) to Shoaib Bashir. Jadeja’s resilience further dented England’s momentum, leaving the hosts hoping for early wickets on Day 2.
England’s Bowling Concerns
While Woakes and Brydon Carse (1-38) impressed, Josh Tongue struggled, leaking 66 runs in 13 overs. His inconsistency highlighted England’s reliance on Jofra Archer, who drew cheers from the Hollies Stand during a drinks break. Archer’s expected return at Lord’s could bolster the attack.
Ben Stokes’ bold call to bowl first again tests India’s resolve.
India’s Selection Puzzle
India’s team selection raised eyebrows, omitting star bowler Jasprit Bumrah and opting for an all-rounder-heavy XI. The exclusion of wrist-spinner Kuldeep Yadav left their attack less threatening, though Jadeja’s presence with bat and ball proved vital.
The Road Ahead
With India aiming for a 400-plus total, England’s batting approach – unchanged from their “no fear” philosophy – will face scrutiny. Stokes’ gamble hinges on another high-stakes chase, but Gill’s masterclass has set the stage for a pivotal Day 2.
As the Anderson-Tendulkar Trophy hangs in the balance, this series continues to redefine Test cricket’s tactical boundaries.
